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1.1.3.9 Lab – Open Loop Control Systems Objective (Instructor Version)
In this activity, you will describe the inputs, the plants, and the outputs of open-loop control systems.
Background/Scenario
Input is not dependent on the output in an open-loop control system. An example of an open-loop control system is a light switch in your home. Moving the light switch to the “on” position is the input, closing the circuit is the plant, and the light turning on is the output.
In this activity, you will consider the following examples of common open-loop control systems and describe the applicable inputs, plants, and outputs.
1. Complete the Input, Plant, and Output fields for the Lawn Sprinkler and Toaster systems.
2. Add your own examples of open-loop control systems in the spaces provided below.
| System | Input | Plant | Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Switch | The switch is moved to the on position. | The light fixture’s electrical circuit is closed. | The light fixture turns on. |
| Lawn Sprinkler | The switch is moved to the on position. | The sprinkler received the Command | The water then opens. |
| Toaster | The switch is moved to the on position. | The electrical energy converted to heating element | Heat energy |
| Motorboat Engine Starter | The key is moved to the on position | The electrical energy starts the engine to convert gasoline fuel to electricity | Electricity |
| Air conditioner | The switch is moved to the on position | The electrical energy converted to cooling element | Cold energy |